Homeowners can reduce their energy use and save money on their utility bills by ensuring their homes have the right amount of insulation, as nearly all homes are considered to be under insulated.
That’s according to Kara Saul Rinaldi, Chief Policy Officer for the Building Performance Association, who testified at yesterday’s U.S. House Energy and Commerce Energy Subcommittee titled, “Building the American Dream: Examining Affordability, Choice, and Security in Appliance and Buildings Policies.”
When asked by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) how homeowners can make their homes more energy efficient, Saul Rinaldi recommended homeowners undergo an energy audit, which would determine what steps can be taken to strengthen their home’s building envelope. Saul Rinaldi continued to explain that since “nine out of ten homes are under insulated,” homeowners should look to upgrade and add energy efficient insulation.
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Congresswoman Matsui: “So if the average American family wants to reduce their energy use and save money on their utility bills, what would you recommend?”
Saul Rinaldi: “First usually recommend an energy audit. Having a professional come review the house. Make sure that their air conditioner is sized properly, make sure they have the right amount of insulation, and make sure that they are taking advantage of all of the low hanging fruit for energy efficiency. Then usually since nine out of ten homes are under insulated, probably energy efficient insulation would be what they would need to do.”
One of the best ways to air seal and insulate your home is by installing spray foam insulation, which prevents conditioned air from escaping outside. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these upgrades can help save homeowners 15% on their heating and cooling bills.
Consumers looking to maximize comfort, reduce energy usage, and save money should look to spray foam insulation to strengthen their home’s building envelope.